In the recent Reading local elections, the Labour Party’s vote seems to have hit a standstill, as they maintained their council majority with 25 seats, the same figure as in previous elections. Despite their success in reclaiming the Emmer Green seat with Daya Pa Singh, the party faced a setback with the loss of their sole remaining seat in Katesgrove to the newly elected Green councillor, Kate Nikulina.

This stagnation in the Labour vote could be attributed to various factors, including voter disillusionment with national party policies, local issues, or shifts in demographics within the constituency & war of Gazza. The loss of the Katesgrove seat may indicate changing attitudes or preferences among constituents in that area, potentially reflecting dissatisfaction with Labour’s representation or a growing appeal of the Green Party’s platform.

Contrastingly, the challenging circumstances faced by the Tory party did not seem to translate into electoral gains. Despite an increase in Conservative numbers in areas like Abbey ward, it was insufficient to secure victory. This suggests that while there may be pockets of increased support for the Tories, it was not widespread enough to significantly impact the overall election outcome. Furthermore, the Tories managed to retain a similar level of voter support overall, indicating resilience in maintaining their base despite prevailing challenges.

Several key factors have driven this change: most recently, the substantial student population from the esteemed University of Reading and the Muslim community, both visibly disheartened by Sir Keir Starmer’s stance on the Gaza conflict. Moreover, the current Green Councillor Doug Cresswell and Councillor Louise Keane from the area have actively engaged with and supported the community, earning widespread appreciation.

In last night’s local election, the sole remaining non-Green seat in this ward was claimed by the new Green councillor, Kate Nikulina, solidifying the Green Party’s presence in the ward.

Katesgrove, much like other areas with a large student presence, has historically leaned towards progressive values, often aligning with the Labour Party’s stances on education, social justice, and healthcare. However, the transient nature of student residency and the diversity of political views within this demographic pose a challenge for maintaining unwavering support.

The University of Reading, renowned for its academic excellence, attracts students from diverse backgrounds and ideologies. While many students may resonate with Labour’s traditional values, others may be drawn to alternative political movements or disenchanted with mainstream politics altogether. This diversity of opinion within the student body presents a unique challenge for political parties seeking to secure their support.

In addition, the Muslim community in Katesgrove, like elsewhere in the UK, constitutes a significant portion of the electorate (11% much higher than the town average) whose concerns deserve attention. Recent events, particularly the Gaza conflict, have evoked strong reactions within the Muslim community & students with many expressing discontent with Sir Keir Starmer’s perceived stance on the issue. While Labour has historically championed human rights and international justice, criticisms of the party’s response to the Gaza conflict have struck a chord with some voters in Katesgrove.

The emergence of the Green Party in the area signals a shifting tide for what was once a stronghold of loyal voters.

Below, you’ll find the complete compilation of results from May 2nd, 2024 – Reading local elections, providing a detailed overview of the outcomes across all wards and parties involved in the electoral process.

Abbey

Electorate: 6,689
Total votes cast: 1,854
Turnout: 27.75%
Spoilt: 13

Battle

Electorate: 7,648
Total votes cast: 2,047
Turnout: 26.77%
Spoilt: 24

Caversham

Electorate: 7,595
Total votes cast: 2,916
Turnout: 38.39%
Spoilt: 14

Caversham Heights

Electorate: 7,507
Total votes cast: 3,432
Turnout: 45.72%
Spoilt: 23

Church

Electorate: 8,361
Total votes cast: 2,117
Turnout: 25.32%
Spoilt: 17

Coley

Electorate: 7,157
Total votes cast: 2,261
Turnout: 31.59%
Spoilt: 12

Emmer Green

Electorate: 7,634
Total votes cast: 2,838
Turnout: 37.18%
Spoilt: 21

Katesgrove

Electorate: 7,825
Total votes cast: 2,340
Turnout: 29.90%
Spoilt: 9

Kentwood

Electorate: 6,720
Total votes cast: 2,375
Turnout: 35.34%
Spoilt: 13

Norcot

Electorate: 7,636
Total votes cast: 2,189
Turnout: 28.67%
Spoilt: 8

Park

Electorate: 7, 093
Total votes cast: 2,725
Turnout: 38.42%
Spoilt: 13

Redlands

Electorate: 8,363
Total votes cast: 2,742
Turnout: 32.79%
Spoilt: 19

Southcote

Electorate: 7,765
Total votes cast: 2,270
Turn out: 29.23%
Spoilt: 18

Thames

Electorate: 6,054
Total votes cast: 1,930
Turnout: 31.88%
Spoilt: 8

Tilehurst

Electorate: 7,269
Total votes cast: 2,275
Turnout: 31.30%
Spoilt: 19

Whitley

Electorate: 7,980
Total votes cast: 1,892
Turnout: 23.71%
Spoilt: 10

Make up of the council

Pre-election

Labour: 32
Green: 7
Conservatives: 5
Liberal Democrats: 3
Independent: 1

Post-election

Labour: 32
Green: 8
Conservatives: 4
Liberal Democrats: 3
Independent: 1